Rabat: The United Kingdom has officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Moroccan Sahara, marking a significant strategic realignment in its foreign policy. This support was articulated by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his visit to Rabat last June, where he emphasized that the autonomy plan represents “the most credible, viable, and practical basis for a lasting solution” to the regional conflict.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Lammy highlighted that the UK’s backing is not merely symbolic but a strategic move that aligns with the UK’s bilateral, economic, regional, and international actions. This stance aims to assist in resolving the longstanding conflict in the North African region. Two days following his visit to Rabat, Lammy reiterated the UK’s stance in the Westminster Parliament, underlining the renewed international engagement as a real opportunity to resolve the protracted conflict that has impacted the entire region.
By aligning with other global powers such as the United States, France, and Spain in supporting Morocco’s plan, the UK’s decision is seen as a robust endorsement of Morocco’s Royal Approach. This strategy has allowed Moroccan diplomacy to advance its national interests effectively. In the UK, the government’s decision under Prime Minister Keir Starmer received widespread support from parliamentary voices and think tanks that had long advocated for this policy shift.
Politicians across the political spectrum welcomed this decisive move. Ben Coleman, Starmer’s Trade Envoy to Morocco and West Africa, expressed that the endorsement of the Autonomy Plan marks “a move in the right direction,” opening a new era for the two countries whose ties have traditionally been close. MPs from both the Labour and Conservative parties agreed that the UK’s support would deepen the historic partnership grounded in strong cooperation and a shared vision for the future.
Labour MP Joe Powell described it as a “sign of trust” in Morocco’s role as a key player for peace and stability in the region. Conservative MP Liam Fox highlighted this moment as a recognition of Morocco’s Royal leadership, which he described as exemplary in navigating complex political landscapes. Former British Ambassador Thomas Rielly saw the UK’s support as a catalyst for a new phase in Morocco-UK relations, characterized by freedom and ambition to explore new opportunities.
The long-standing friendship between the two kingdoms, spanning over 800 years, has been rejuvenated and solidified through the commitments made in the joint communiqu© confirming British support for the autonomy plan. Alistair Burt, former British Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, noted that in these uncertain times, countries are turning to trusted partners. He emphasized that Morocco, under visionary royal leadership, is not just a partner but an influential player poised to address contemporary global challenges.